Hormone therapy in menopause increases rheumatoid arthritis risk: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Seminars in arthritis and rheumatism·April 1, 2026·PMID: 41619569

What's New

Menopausal hormone therapy was associated with a modest 15% increase in rheumatoid arthritis risk, with greater risk observed among current and long-term users.

Detailed Summary

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 5 observational studies encompassing 22,291,843 person-years found that menopausal hormone therapy use was associated with a modestly increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RR 1.15; 95% CI 1.10-1.21; p<0.001). Long-term use of 4 or more years was associated with greater risk (RR 1.19; 95% CI 1.07-1.33).

Study Population

Postmenopausal women across 5 observational studies (22,291,843 person-years of follow-up)

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